There are significant changes which cannot be overlooked regarding the Saudi foreign policy. It seems that there is a review and re-evaluation of this policy on the basis of gains and losses. This policy is more open and pragmatic and less stagnant and confrontational.
There are three main indicators which can be observed here:
- Saudi Arabia has liberated itself from fixed frames of the Arab alliances which dominated during the last two decades. Therefore, there is no longer a permanent friendship or alliances or a complete enmity in dealing with allies and enemies in the region. Apparently, the kingdom has found that one of its strategic expedients is liberation from the burden of some traditional allies who were involved in many regional problems during the last eight years.
- Saudi Arabia has tried to re-establish its relationship with international powers, particularly the US, China, and Russia. It is true that there is a long-term strategic relationship between Washington and Riyadh, but this relationship has been affected negatively during the last two years.
- It has also made efforts to be present in all the plans of action and circles of regional and international influence. Regionally, Saudi Arabia is involved in more than one political and geostrategic issues, such as Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Lebanon, Egypt, etc., in different forms and degrees.
If it is difficult to be certain, at present, that the current changes in the Saudi foreign policy are fundamental and are long-term strategic shifts.
[by Khalil Alanani in Aljazeera]